Budget Pressures
Councils are currently addressing significant budget shortfalls by identifying savings and exploring new revenue streams.
Merton Council is currently working to identify an additional £1.744 million in savings to balance its budget, as discussed at an Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting in March 2026. This is on top of £8.3 million in savings already identified, with the council aiming to close a remaining shortfall before its February Budget Council meeting.
Other councils are also responding to financial pressures. Hillingdon Council approved new fees for non-commercial photography in parks in November 2025 to generate revenue, citing high demand for temporary accommodation and Adult Social Care. Harrow Council's risk register flagged increasing homelessness and budget pressures as key concerns in July 2025.
Budget pressures refer to the financial constraints and difficulties faced by local authorities, often due to reduced funding and increased demand for services. Councils are working to manage these challenges, which can lead to projected overspends and the need for cost-saving measures.
Key facts
- Merton Council needs to identify an additional £1.744 million in savings to balance its budget. Source
- Merton Council had already identified £8.3 million in savings. Source
- Hillingdon Council approved fees for non-commercial photography in parks in November 2025. Source
- Hillingdon Council faced a projected £36 million overspend. Source
- Harrow Council's risk register flagged increasing homelessness and budget pressures in July 2025. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.